Prospect Talent Score

Probability of Success

History

2006-07: Sam Gagner scored 35 goals and added 83 assists in 53 games. He was a 17-year-old member of the Canadian World Junior club, but didn’t see much ice time during the tournament. Upon his return, Gagner also suffered an injury that kept him out of some games and slowed his progress upon his return.

Talent Analysis

The two words affiliated with Gagner are hockey and sense. He has an uncanny ability to not just see what’s happening on the ice, but to also project what’s going to happen. Gagner, who has grown up in a hockey environment under the tutelage of father (and current coach) Dave Gagner, understands the game like few other prospects. Gagner showed a great deal of leadership on and off the ice and projects to be a solid offensive-minded centre, with a capable understanding of defensive play.

Photo: Taken sixth overall in 2007, Sam Gagner may finally be starting to realize his immense offensive potential. In his last three games, Gagner has six goals and six assists including an eight point night on February 2nd. (Photo courtesy of NHL)

With a trio of picks in the first round, including the sixth pick overall, expectations were high for the Oilers to be able to pluck some key pieces in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Five years out, the results are disappointing to say the least.

Despite picking sixth, 15th, and 21st (after trading up from 30th and adding the 36th to make the move), the Oilers have emerged with only one quality NHL player from that bunch, Sam Gagner. The other two selections, Alex Plante and Riley Nash respectively, have been disappointments and may not ever become NHL regulars. It was also the last draft ran by former Oilers Head Scout Kevin Prendergast.